NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. is now both the #1 importer of Vinho Verde wines not only in volume but value, too—narrowly edging out Germany for the top spot. This can be attributed, in part, to an increase in demand for higher-quality single varietal wines from the region by both trade and consumers. From January 2015 through September 2015 imports of Vinho Verde wines were up +14% in volume and an astonishing +34% in value from 2014*. The decision to focus on the region’s uniqueness by creating exceptional wines from indigenous varietals is clearly paying off.
Wine critics and enthusiasts alike have come to see Portugal, and in particular Vinho Verde, as a source for quality-driven, value wines. “Our producers have placed a lot of attention on perfecting their wines; offering consumers something slightly new and different but of the highest quality possible,” said Carla Cunha, Marketing Director of the Comissão de Viticultura da Região Vinhos Verdes (CVRVV). The region provides a multitude of styles from age-worthy whites and elegantly balanced rosés to effervescent sparkling wines and well-structured reds. So it is no surprise that these once hard-to-find, hard-to-pronounce varietals like Alvarinho, Loureiro, Espadeiro and Vinhão are finding their way onto store shelves and wine lists in record numbers.
As producers throughout the region revamped and upgraded their wineries, many went a step further adding boutique hotels, day spas and tasting rooms to accommodate the growing number of visitors. This is further confirmation that the region is committed to providing consumers with quality above all else. With investments in viticulture, research, marketing and now wine tourism, Vinho Verde is poised for bigger and better things in years to come.
About CVRVV – Wines of Vinho Verde
The Comissão de Viticultura da Região Vinhos Verdes (CVRVV) is the region’s viticultural commission, first established in 1926. The CVRVV is responsible for supervising the production, sale and certification of all products using the Vinho Verde DO and Minho GI designations. Vinho Verde wines are some of the most refreshing discoveries for US wine consumers, offering excellent quality at affordable price points in all styles.
*INE/Intrastat (Portugal)
